7 News Report: Mental Health in the Workplace

The Importance of Mental Health in the Workplace

Mental health issues in the workplace are more common than you might think. According to a recent report published by the World Health Organization (WHO), depression and anxiety alone cost the global economy US$1 trillion per year in lost productivity.

Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought mental health issues in the workplace into sharper focus. With remote work, office closures, and increased workload, employees are likely to face additional stress and anxiety.

Research has shown that taking care of employee mental health is not only the ethical thing to do but also makes good business sense. Here are a few reasons why:

Reduced absenteeism & presenteeism

Employees with mental health issues are more likely to be absent from work or show up to work but be unproductive, both of which lead to lost productivity and increased costs for employers.

By investing in employee mental health, employers can see a reduction in employee absenteeism and presenteeism, increasing employee productivity and morale.

Improved employee retention & recruitment

Employers who prioritize mental health create a more positive workplace culture, leading to increased employee satisfaction and retention. Employees are more likely to stay with an organization that prioritizes their well-being.

In addition, employers who prioritize mental health can leverage this as part of their recruitment process, attracting top talent who value workplace culture and well-being.

Reduced healthcare costs

Mental health issues often lead to physical health issues, and the resulting medical costs can be substantial. By investing in employee mental health, employers can reduce healthcare costs associated with both mental and physical health issues.

Ways to Support Employee Mental Health

Now that we’ve established the importance of employee mental health, let’s take a look at some practical ways employers can support their employees:

Educate Employees on Mental Health

Education is the first step in reducing the stigma surrounding mental health. Employers can provide training to their employees, promoting mental health awareness, and destigmatizing mental health issues. This can also include providing resources and support for employees who are struggling.

Create a Positive Workplace Culture

Ultimately, the workplace culture sets the tone for employee well-being. Employers can create a positive work environment, which includes fostering open communication, facilitating work-life balance, and encouraging work breaks.

Provide Access to Mental Health Resources

Employers can provide resources to support employee mental health, including access to mental health professionals or Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). EAPs offer employees confidential, short-term counseling support and can be a cost-effective way to support employee mental health.

In conclusion, supporting employee mental health is crucial for both employee and employer well-being. By prioritizing mental health in the workplace, employers can improve employee morale, reduce costs, and create a more positive workplace culture.